"The police's authority is enormous, as well as their power. It should be utilized properly, and none should be abused," the President said while presiding over the Indonesian Police's 77th-anniversary commemoration at the Gelora Bung Karno Main Stadium, Jakarta on Saturday.
He hoped the police would not be stern toward the ordinary people and lax toward the upper class in enforcing laws.
Residents need the police to provide security, justice, and protection, he said adding, the police must not neglect the people's demands.
The police should also protect and provide legal clarity and business certainty to residents and entrepreneurs, he said.
Widodo further said that he is glad to see continued improvement in public trust in the police. However, the police should not become complacent and persevere in improving itself, he emphasized.
Related news: TNI commander optimistic of greater synergy between military, police
"This is a good development, but we should continue improving it. The police should improve themselves and reform itself in various aspects," he added.
The head of state stressed that the police's actions and deeds are under the constant scrutiny of the people, and any undesirable actions might be detrimental to public trust in the institution.
"You must be careful because now, everything can be recorded and shared; no police action can be concealed, no matter how small it is," he underlined.
"Hence, the trust in the police will undergo constant testing, and how good the public trust and satisfaction level (with the police is) will be essential," he added.
Indonesia's Police Day, also known as Bhayangkara Day, is observed to commemorate the issuance of Government Resolution No. 11 of 1946 by President Soekarno, authorizing the establishment of the national police under direct executive command.
Related news: House seeks greater professionalism from Polri at 77th anniversary
Translator: Indra Arief P, Nabil Ihsan
Editor: Bayu Prasetyo
Copyright © ANTARA 2023
